Trauma patients frequently face higher risks when readmitted to nonindex hospitals, impacting surgical outcomes.

• 11.9% of trauma patients had a 90-day readmission after initial hospitalization.
• 28% were sent to nonindex hospitals, where they faced 11% higher adjusted odds of mortality and 12% increased odds of major complications.

Addressing fragmented care is crucial for improving patient safety and surgical results.

• Infections like septicemia were the most common reasons for readmission.